We are looking for a confident, refined and articulate Lodge Manager to manage our lodge at Dulini Daunara, with a primary focus on front of house guest experience. A strong leader, guest-focused and detail orientated, with the ability to inspire a team and maintain the highest standards.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-07-31
Key Responsibilities
- Effectively engage with guests on a personal yet professional level
- Maintain an attention to detail and service delivery which ensures an exceptional guest experience (uphold standards)
- Contribute to, implement and maintain the Dulini standards through constant review
- Ensure guests have a warm, sincere and informative welcome and orientation, and are hosted at meals as required
- Seek information and show patience, resourcefulness and skill when solving guest problems, and follow up effectively with the responsible people/department
- Manage staff discipline in a consistent manner, with a focus on encouraging best performance
- Be knowledgeable of, adhere to, and enforce company policies, SOPs and procedures
- Communicate effectively with staff as well as seniors and peers
- Work effectively with the management team to promote the business objectives as a whole
- Working with the respective Group HODs, manage all guest-facing departments (F&B, housekeeping, guiding) to promote best performance and deliver exceptional service
- Monitor feedback and report trends or issues to the General Manager
- Nurture staff relations and create a culture of care in staff villages and the community
- Effectively manage and promote staff training and development, and staff welfare initiatives
- Support and be involved in local community and conservation initiatives
- Manage and control expenditure within agreed budgets
- Constant assessment and improvement of efficiencies of all resources
- Effectively manage all matters of stock control, including lodge assets
- Manage all administrative matters effectively as per SOPs and within the confines of labour legislation, including work rosters, leave accrual and month-end reporting
- Accept full accountability for all guest-facing aspects of the lodge/camp at all times, and provide detailed and comprehensive handovers
- Maintenance of all facilities, equipment, infrastructure and concession services
- Planned preventative maintenance for all plant, equipment, buildings & vehicles
- Water & energy management and monitoring, and energy-saving initiatives
- Generator plants, borehole pumps, sewage plant and all utilities management
- Maintenance of vehicles, boats, firefighting equipment, roads and airstrips
- New works and equipment commissioning and project management
- Waste management, pest control and safe storage of goods and fuel
- Guest interaction and informative education
- Assist in logistical operations, loading/unloading, and safety procedures
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, fire safety and environmental policies
- Maintain detailed records, plans, drawings and maintenance reports
- Ensure minimal disruption to guests during maintenance programmes
Requirements
- Hospitality qualification (advantageous)
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a luxury safari lodge
- Proven front of house leadership and people management
- Strong knowledge of F&B, housekeeping & guiding operations
- Solid background in stock control, administration and budgeting
- Good working knowledge of facilities & maintenance
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Valid driver’s licence
- Computer literacy (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Flexible, hands-on and solution orientated
Salary
Competitive market-related salary (based on qualifications and experience)
How to Apply
About the Company
Fletcher Dulini Ncube was a Zimbabwean politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Lobengula-Magwegwe. He was born at the Hope Fountain Mission in Zimbabwe on January 9, 1940.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications, certifications, or prior experience are typically required for a Lodge Manager (Front of House) role in Botswana's hospitality sector?
A diploma or degree in Hospitality Management is often preferred, alongside extensive experience in a luxury lodge or hotel front office. Candidates should possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record in guest relations and staff management.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Lodge Manager (Front of House) at a luxury lodge in Botswana?
You would oversee all guest-facing operations, ensuring exceptional service, managing front office staff, and handling guest inquiries and complaints promptly. This includes daily operational briefings, quality control, and ensuring a seamless guest experience from arrival to departure.
What should I expect regarding the local work culture and expectations for a Lodge Manager in Botswana, especially concerning guest service and staff management?
Botswana's hospitality culture values warm, authentic service, with a strong emphasis on personalized guest experiences and respect for local traditions. Expect long, demanding hours, particularly during peak seasons, and a need for strong interpersonal skills to manage a diverse team effectively.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Lodge Manager (Front of House) within Botswana's luxury safari industry?
With demonstrated success and continued professional development, you could advance to a General Manager position for a larger lodge or a cluster of properties. Opportunities may also arise in regional operations management or specialized roles within larger hospitality groups.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can a Lodge Manager expect in Botswana's luxury lodge environment?
Most reputable lodges in Botswana offer competitive packages that often include on-site accommodation, meals, and annual leave. Medical aid and pension contributions are also common benefits, though specific details vary by employer and length of service.
When applying for a Lodge Manager role in Botswana, what do employers typically look for in applications and during the interview process?
Employers seek candidates with strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, coupled with proven experience in luxury hospitality. A genuine passion for conservation, an understanding of the local environment, and a deep commitment to guest service excellence are highly valued.